Watch How Art Made The World

How Art Made The World is a six-part documentary series that aired on PBS in 2005. The show explores the origins and impact of art on human civilization. Hosted by art historian Nigel Spivey, the series also features contributions from archaeologist Dominic Ffytche and neuroscientist Vilayanur Ramachandran.

The series begins by examining the role of art in early human societies. Spivey argues that art played a critical role in shaping human consciousness and culture. He points to the earliest known works of art, such as the cave paintings at Lascaux in , as evidence of this. According to Spivey, these paintings reflect a deep human need to make sense of the world through art.

The second episode of the series focuses on the art of ancient Egypt. Ffytche explains how the Egyptians used art to convey a complex set of religious beliefs and rituals. He also explores the use of hieroglyphics, which allowed the Egyptians to capture their language and culture in a permanent form.

In the third episode, Spivey turns his attention to ancient Greece. He argues that the Greeks used art to explore fundamental questions about human existence, such as the nature of beauty, truth, and justice. Spivey also explores the development of Greek sculpture and architecture, which he sees as a reflection of the Greeks' desire to create a perfect human form and a perfect society.

The fourth episode of the series takes a look at the art of ancient China. Ffytche explains how the Chinese developed a unique style of landscape painting that reflected their belief in the unity of humans and nature. He also explores the use of calligraphy in Chinese art, which allowed artists to convey complex philosophical and spiritual concepts.

In the fifth episode, Ramachandran discusses the neuroscience of art. He argues that art has the ability to activate the same parts of the brain that are involved in perception and emotion. Ramachandran also explores the ways in which art can be used to treat neurological disorders such as phantom limb pain.

The series concludes with an examination of contemporary art. Spivey argues that contemporary art is an important form of social commentary and political activism. He cites artists such as Banksy and Ai Weiwei as examples of artists who use their work to challenge the status quo and promote social change.

Overall, How Art Made The World offers a fascinating look at the complex and varied ways in which art has shaped human culture throughout history. The series is well-researched and engaging, and the contributions from experts in art history, archaeology, and neuroscience add depth and insight to the discussions. Whether you're a casual art lover or a seasoned scholar, How Art Made The World is a must-see series that will deepen your appreciation for the power and significance of art.

How Art Made The World is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between May 26, 2005 and on PBS